Psychiatrists in 98201
![Photo of Sandy Grewal, ARNP, MA, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d96f697-9d7c-43dc-8f53-9e8a4bab5352/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Sandy Grewal. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from Maryville University (St. Louis MO) in 2020. My passion is mental health and serving those in need of mental health services. I approach care by looking at the individual as a whole and not as just a set of symptoms. My mental health services include psychiatric evaluations, psychoeducation, and medication management for depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Treatment plans are individualized for each client, 13 years and older. I will always take the time to explain what the best course of action is going to look like.
My name is Sandy Grewal. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from Maryville University (St. Louis MO) in 2020. My passion is mental health and serving those in need of mental health services. I approach care by looking at the individual as a whole and not as just a set of symptoms. My mental health services include psychiatric evaluations, psychoeducation, and medication management for depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Treatment plans are individualized for each client, 13 years and older. I will always take the time to explain what the best course of action is going to look like.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e5cf3be-9c68-499b-b1bc-82d2f657cede/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
![Photo of May Dee Gemilo - May Gemilo - Therapeutic Alliances, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a9505f1-c71a-494d-b991-760e392da639/1/320x400.jpeg)
May Gemilo - Therapeutic Alliances
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
I'm drawn to clients facing a spectrum of mental health challenges—be it ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or other psychiatric issues. My ideal clients are those seeking support, understanding, and effective treatment tailored to their unique needs. They come to me with goals like achieving symptom relief, enhancing coping mechanisms, and overall well-being. What they want is a therapeutic partnership, trusting in my expertise to guide them toward mental wellness. It's about providing personalized care, fostering trust, and helping them navigate a path to a healthier, more balanced life.
I'm drawn to clients facing a spectrum of mental health challenges—be it ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or other psychiatric issues. My ideal clients are those seeking support, understanding, and effective treatment tailored to their unique needs. They come to me with goals like achieving symptom relief, enhancing coping mechanisms, and overall well-being. What they want is a therapeutic partnership, trusting in my expertise to guide them toward mental wellness. It's about providing personalized care, fostering trust, and helping them navigate a path to a healthier, more balanced life.
![Photo of Laura Perez, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e6185b5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My 11 years of experience caring for patients as a Nurse at the UW Medical Center has given me a unique understanding of the importance of the patient provider relationship. Trust, honesty & caring in addition to sound, evidenced based psychiatric and mental health care is essential in creating a treatment plan that works for you. You need to trust that your plan is in your best interest. Only you can decide to participate. As your provider, I will be honest with you. And you can be certain that I do really care about how you are doing.
My 11 years of experience caring for patients as a Nurse at the UW Medical Center has given me a unique understanding of the importance of the patient provider relationship. Trust, honesty & caring in addition to sound, evidenced based psychiatric and mental health care is essential in creating a treatment plan that works for you. You need to trust that your plan is in your best interest. Only you can decide to participate. As your provider, I will be honest with you. And you can be certain that I do really care about how you are doing.
![Photo of Paula Alsept - Spectrum Psychiatry Asociates, ARNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e7b5767-0096-46f8-8d93-09b4f5b266fc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Many people come to me looking for better management of their anxiety, attention, or mood. I meet each person where they are. In part, this means prescribing medication or practicing psychotherapy with and for each individual. My first goal is always symptom remission. I will work with you to help you get relief.
Many people come to me looking for better management of their anxiety, attention, or mood. I meet each person where they are. In part, this means prescribing medication or practicing psychotherapy with and for each individual. My first goal is always symptom remission. I will work with you to help you get relief.
![Photo of Susan J Jones, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c54fe63-d08e-4c51-8bee-4c394fa21440/3/320x400.jpeg)
Susan J Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy working in partnership with individuals to improve quality of life by addressing overall mental, emotional, relational and physical health. I specialize in combining focused psychotherapy with life style changes and medication if indicated. I have experience and special interest in helping clients building resilence, self awareness and self advocacy after trauma and loss, using those experiences to inform the present and improve the future. For those that want it, incorporating mindfulness, prayer and spiritual direction is available.
I enjoy working in partnership with individuals to improve quality of life by addressing overall mental, emotional, relational and physical health. I specialize in combining focused psychotherapy with life style changes and medication if indicated. I have experience and special interest in helping clients building resilence, self awareness and self advocacy after trauma and loss, using those experiences to inform the present and improve the future. For those that want it, incorporating mindfulness, prayer and spiritual direction is available.
![Photo of Hyesoon Choi - Mind and Behavior Center, PMHNP, ARNP, MN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f38986c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mind and Behavior Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP, MN
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
Specializing in medication management with therapy for ADHD, Anxiety, Mood, Addiction, and Co-occurring Disorder treatment. Hyesoon Choi ARNP likes to see herself a little differently, right now she’s at the peak of her life. One of her beliefs is "Knowledge is not the power. Practiced knowledge is the power". She likes to share her knowledge and hopes that her audience will practice that knowledge to find their happiness within.
Specializing in medication management with therapy for ADHD, Anxiety, Mood, Addiction, and Co-occurring Disorder treatment. Hyesoon Choi ARNP likes to see herself a little differently, right now she’s at the peak of her life. One of her beliefs is "Knowledge is not the power. Practiced knowledge is the power". She likes to share her knowledge and hopes that her audience will practice that knowledge to find their happiness within.
![Photo of Sandra F. Carrier, MSN, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f3eae94-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I am an adult psychiatric nurse practitioner in private practice. I provide evaluations, medication management, and individual therapy. I require ALL POTENTIAL NEW CLIENTS TO ASK THEIR CURRENT PROVIDER TO SEND A REFERRAL BY FAX to 1-425-449-4091. I am accepting FAXED REFERRALS ONLY. Emails through Psychology Today will NOT receive a response.
Welcome! I am an adult psychiatric nurse practitioner in private practice. I provide evaluations, medication management, and individual therapy. I require ALL POTENTIAL NEW CLIENTS TO ASK THEIR CURRENT PROVIDER TO SEND A REFERRAL BY FAX to 1-425-449-4091. I am accepting FAXED REFERRALS ONLY. Emails through Psychology Today will NOT receive a response.
![Photo of Alexandra J Pales, PMHNP, RN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64968e8e-df65-47e9-9e60-4a88bc30a0d1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandra J Pales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN, MSN
Verified Verified
29 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201 (Online Only)
My approach to healthcare is collaborative. We work together to create a treatment plan with your priorities in mind, and to provide you with as much information for you to in formed about your care, and make informed decisions. I practice intentional de-centered care, where healthcare is not dictated by the provider, but rather the client. I enjoy providing whole person care, looking at nutrition, complementary and alternative therapies, sleep, habits, while also offering psychiatric medications where could be beneficial and if preferred by the client.
My approach to healthcare is collaborative. We work together to create a treatment plan with your priorities in mind, and to provide you with as much information for you to in formed about your care, and make informed decisions. I practice intentional de-centered care, where healthcare is not dictated by the provider, but rather the client. I enjoy providing whole person care, looking at nutrition, complementary and alternative therapies, sleep, habits, while also offering psychiatric medications where could be beneficial and if preferred by the client.
![Photo of Nehemiah Zarate-Rourke, DNP, PMHNPBC, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/622f0404-5208-47d0-b883-96816e7cbeee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nehemiah Zarate-Rourke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with the passion for holistic and collaborative mental health care. Armed with a doctorate degree in nurse practice specializing in psychiatric and mental health care, coupled with extensive experience, I bring in a comprehensive approach. My mission is deeply personal. I believe in guiding individuals on their unique paths to mental well-being, offering personalized care, and unwavering support. Through compassion, innovation, and a commitment to growth, I strive to empower each person to embrace their journey, find resilience, and celebrate every forward step towards a brighter tomorrow.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with the passion for holistic and collaborative mental health care. Armed with a doctorate degree in nurse practice specializing in psychiatric and mental health care, coupled with extensive experience, I bring in a comprehensive approach. My mission is deeply personal. I believe in guiding individuals on their unique paths to mental well-being, offering personalized care, and unwavering support. Through compassion, innovation, and a commitment to growth, I strive to empower each person to embrace their journey, find resilience, and celebrate every forward step towards a brighter tomorrow.
![Photo of Anabel Sema - Unique Mental Health Services PLLC, ARNP, PMHNP, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a214b4ba-ebd5-4f12-9e28-d1788532542b/1/320x400.png)
Unique Mental Health Services PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, BSN
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
Accepting new patients 18-60 years in-person at the office and telehealth. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Other aspects of your life might be affected if your mental health care is not prioritized. Seek professional help to safe your relationships, work and maintain equilibrium in your functioning. Some symptoms of concern are; anxiety, prolonged sadness, mood swings, thoughts about suicide or harming self/others and, psychosis. I diagnose and treat mental health symptoms of anxiety, depression, mood/personality disorders, ADHD and many other mental health illnesses.
Accepting new patients 18-60 years in-person at the office and telehealth. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Other aspects of your life might be affected if your mental health care is not prioritized. Seek professional help to safe your relationships, work and maintain equilibrium in your functioning. Some symptoms of concern are; anxiety, prolonged sadness, mood swings, thoughts about suicide or harming self/others and, psychosis. I diagnose and treat mental health symptoms of anxiety, depression, mood/personality disorders, ADHD and many other mental health illnesses.
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![Photo of Jana Robison, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/002dc830-604f-4a5f-89fa-851b3a123a52/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jana Robison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201
Currently accepting new med management clients (updated 7/11/2024). I welcome children, teens, and young adults into my office, regardless of race, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. I look forward to learning from my clients and their families, encouraging them all to live a life to their fullest potential with their most authentic self. My sincerest goal is to partner with you in getting where your child wants to be so that your child can live their best life! There is always hope. There is no room for blame, shame, or stigma in my office.
Currently accepting new med management clients (updated 7/11/2024). I welcome children, teens, and young adults into my office, regardless of race, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. I look forward to learning from my clients and their families, encouraging them all to live a life to their fullest potential with their most authentic self. My sincerest goal is to partner with you in getting where your child wants to be so that your child can live their best life! There is always hope. There is no room for blame, shame, or stigma in my office.
![Photo of Rachael Daniel - Anywhere Wellness Depression Medications -Rachael , APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8292e366-c84c-4df4-be2a-3ecf1288cb5b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anywhere Wellness Depression Medications -Rachael
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201 (Online Only)
Feeling overwhelmed? Facing challenges at work, home, or in relationships? I provide safe, trusting, warm, non-judgmental counseling. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I value mutual respect, trust, empathy, authenticity, and compassion. Together, we can address your concerns in a private, supportive space. I offer medication management with counseling.
Feeling overwhelmed? Facing challenges at work, home, or in relationships? I provide safe, trusting, warm, non-judgmental counseling. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I value mutual respect, trust, empathy, authenticity, and compassion. Together, we can address your concerns in a private, supportive space. I offer medication management with counseling.
![Photo of Dr. Nicholas Tamoria, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0f47842-8baf-4b36-8f18-6b5066a274d9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Nicholas Tamoria
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201 (Online Only)
I provide specialty psychiatry services to adults in Washington state via telehealth. My passion is helping people from all walks of life find healing and balance for their mental health. My clients value a compassionate physician skilled in assessment and treatment of psychiatric conditions. I'm an expert on depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, and more. I have a particular interest in helping leaders & professionals be healthy: executives, clinicians, public servants, business owners, managers, engineers, educators, first-responders, etc. Our interconnected communities benefit when our leaders are well.
I provide specialty psychiatry services to adults in Washington state via telehealth. My passion is helping people from all walks of life find healing and balance for their mental health. My clients value a compassionate physician skilled in assessment and treatment of psychiatric conditions. I'm an expert on depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, and more. I have a particular interest in helping leaders & professionals be healthy: executives, clinicians, public servants, business owners, managers, engineers, educators, first-responders, etc. Our interconnected communities benefit when our leaders are well.
![Photo of Rodolfo A Trivisonno - Dr T Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c944f9e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
In these times of COVID-19 Are you feeling Anxious and WORRIED? Do you feel depressed? Have your previous treatments failed? Are you experiencing problems remembering things and maintaining a normal weight? Do you suffer from panic attacks, anxiety, trauma issues? Do you experience painful shyness? Are you haunted by unexplained physical symptoms and the doctors have said that "it is all in your head?" I am here to help you.
In these times of COVID-19 Are you feeling Anxious and WORRIED? Do you feel depressed? Have your previous treatments failed? Are you experiencing problems remembering things and maintaining a normal weight? Do you suffer from panic attacks, anxiety, trauma issues? Do you experience painful shyness? Are you haunted by unexplained physical symptoms and the doctors have said that "it is all in your head?" I am here to help you.
![Photo of Syed Jamal Mustafa, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d55294b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am an experienced Board Certified Psychiatrist, specializing in medication management. I am open to collaborating with providers of other disciplines for the benefit my patients. I practice evidence based medicine. My primary focus is your well-being and safety. Accurate and honest clinical assessment/ diagnosis, and effective treatment is my goal.
I am an experienced Board Certified Psychiatrist, specializing in medication management. I am open to collaborating with providers of other disciplines for the benefit my patients. I practice evidence based medicine. My primary focus is your well-being and safety. Accurate and honest clinical assessment/ diagnosis, and effective treatment is my goal.
![Photo of Dev Brierley, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e373284-6ae8-4786-9fd3-a7f18723cb41/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dev Brierley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201 (Online Only)
I am telehealth only. I am accepting patients who have Cigna, Aetna, Regence, HMA, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, and those paying out of pocket as soon as next week! I do not take Molina, Medicare/Medicaid. I will credentialed with Premera (Lifewise) by August. My schedule is: 9-4 PM, M-Thurs. I am a doctorally trained, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I am licensed as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) in Washington State. I received my Bachelor of Nursing Science diploma (2009) and then my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree (2016) both from Washington State University.
I am telehealth only. I am accepting patients who have Cigna, Aetna, Regence, HMA, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, and those paying out of pocket as soon as next week! I do not take Molina, Medicare/Medicaid. I will credentialed with Premera (Lifewise) by August. My schedule is: 9-4 PM, M-Thurs. I am a doctorally trained, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I am licensed as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) in Washington State. I received my Bachelor of Nursing Science diploma (2009) and then my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree (2016) both from Washington State University.
![Photo of Ashley Cerny, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49370575-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley has been in the field of mental health and psychology since 2001. She completed her her masters in nursing at University of Washington in 2011. As an ARNP she has worked in community mental health clinics serving families, chronically mentally ill adults and people struggling with addiction. In 2015 she transitioned into private practice and began her focus on women's mental health and trauma. Ashley works with women coping with anxiety disorders, trauma and complex PTSD, depression, bipolar, postpartum concerns, disordered sleep and ADHD.
Ashley has been in the field of mental health and psychology since 2001. She completed her her masters in nursing at University of Washington in 2011. As an ARNP she has worked in community mental health clinics serving families, chronically mentally ill adults and people struggling with addiction. In 2015 she transitioned into private practice and began her focus on women's mental health and trauma. Ashley works with women coping with anxiety disorders, trauma and complex PTSD, depression, bipolar, postpartum concerns, disordered sleep and ADHD.
![Photo of Dorcas Mwangi, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b495236d-454f-44d9-8a23-e1facaf5b203/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dorcas Mwangi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201 (Online Only)
Welcome to our site. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Washington state. I have over 11 years of experience working in the mental health filed. I provide psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and evidence-based medication management. My ultimate goal is to work with my clients to find an individualized treatment plan that helps them to achieve their best wellness. I believe in offering Patient-Centered Care, to enable my patients to acquire necessary tools to achieve optimal mental health wellness.
Welcome to our site. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Washington state. I have over 11 years of experience working in the mental health filed. I provide psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and evidence-based medication management. My ultimate goal is to work with my clients to find an individualized treatment plan that helps them to achieve their best wellness. I believe in offering Patient-Centered Care, to enable my patients to acquire necessary tools to achieve optimal mental health wellness.
![Photo of Power Capote, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc7e3cbd-d3c6-483a-a126-e6d42bbad38f/1/320x400.png)
Accepting New Patients! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 17 years of extensive healthcare experience, including 10 years as an RN and seven years as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My experience includes medication management, IOP/PHP programs, substance abuse programs, and TMS Therapy. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN-PMHNP) from Florida International University and am fluent in Spanish. I continually stay updated on current technologies and treatments to ensure precise and personalized treatment. I am invested in helping clients achieve their best life and full functioning.
Accepting New Patients! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 17 years of extensive healthcare experience, including 10 years as an RN and seven years as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My experience includes medication management, IOP/PHP programs, substance abuse programs, and TMS Therapy. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN-PMHNP) from Florida International University and am fluent in Spanish. I continually stay updated on current technologies and treatments to ensure precise and personalized treatment. I am invested in helping clients achieve their best life and full functioning.
See more therapy options for 98201
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 98201
30+
Average cost per session
$262
Psychiatrists in 98201 who prioritize treating:
97% | Depression |
97% | Anxiety |
94% | Trauma and PTSD |
88% | Medication Management |
85% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | ADHD |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Regence |
89% | Premera Blue Cross |
82% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in 98201 see their clients
64% | In Person and Online | |
36% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
68% | Female | |
32% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 98201?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.